New York State Democratic Leader Addresses Delegation at 43rd National Convention in Denver

August 28, 2008

(DENVER, C.O.) On the final day of the historic Democratic Convention in Denver, Senate Democratic Leader Malcolm A. Smith (D-St. Albans) had the honor of addressing the 361- member New York delegation.

In anticipation of Senator Barack Obama’s acceptance of the Democratic Party nomination, Smith discussed the upcoming sixty-nine days of the campaign and the change Senator Obama will bring to get America back on track.

“Last night we witnessed history with the nomination of Senator Barack Obama. It is fitting, that today on the 45th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King’s historic “I Have a Dream” speech, the Democratic Presidential nominee Barack Obama, will cement his nomination as the first ever African American candidate for President with a speech to an audience of more than 78,000, ” said Senator Smith. “Sadly, Dr. King was unable to witness the full impact of his words but his message of hope and equal opportunity lives on.”

New York Democrats, the nation’s second largest delegation, has rallied behind Senators Obama and Biden and emerged a unified and energized party committed to delivering the changes America needs.

Throughout the week Senator Smith has met with various organizations and elected officials to ensure that the needs of New York State are a part of the national platform. Key issue areas include the economy, alternative energy and lower costs, health care reform and quality education.

“This morning we gathered as a state delegation for the last time of this convention, ready to move forward on a path of change. The next 69 days will shape the future of our state and our nation. Standing behind the team of Obama and Biden, we will put a Democrat in the White House and get America working again,” said Senator Smith.

“The needs of New York mirror the needs of the nation, and the task at hand leading up to this November is identical: a concerted effort to produce the results that Republicans have been quick to promise but slow to deliver, especially in New York,” said Senator Smith.

“From Brooklyn to Buffalo, we must rebuild our economy, putting it back to work for working class families. Once we retake the Senate Majority, Democrats will finally pass the Paid Family Leave bill, and protect thousands of workers who struggle to balance support for a family and the demands of work,” said Senator Smith.

New York’s Democratic platform also includes: measures to prohibit outsourcing by companies that receive state tax breaks but drive away jobs; and enact real property tax relief through fiscal innovation and responsibility, without affecting the ability of children to receive a quality education, concluded Senator Smith.